Gross Anatomy of the Brain & Cranial Nerves

These flashcards cover essential concepts and structures related to the gross anatomy of the brain and cranial nerves as outlined in the lecture notes.

What are the major components of the brain classified as encephalons?

Telencephalon (Cerebrum), Diencephalon (Thalamus, Hypothalamus), Mesencephalon (Midbrain), Metencephalon (Pons, Cerebellum), Myelencephalon (Medulla Oblongata).

What is the function of the meninges?

The meninges protect the brain, consisting of three layers: dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater.

Where is cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) produced?

CSF is produced in the choroid plexuses located within the brain's ventricles.

What are the four main cranial fossae and their corresponding parts of the brain?

Anterior cranial fossa (Frontal lobe), Middle cranial fossa (Temporal lobe), Posterior cranial fossa (Cerebellum).

What are the foramina through which the cranial nerves exit the skull?

Each cranial nerve has specific foramina; for example, Olfactory nerve (I) exits through the Cribriform Plate, Optic nerve (II) through the Optic Foramen.

What structures are found within the telencephalon?

The telencephalon, also known as the cerebrum, includes structures like the cerebral cortex, caudate nucleus, hippocampus, putamen, and amygdala.

What is the role of the corpus callosum?

The corpus callosum connects the left and right cerebral hemispheres, allowing communication between them.

Describe the sequence of cerebrospinal fluid flow through the ventricles.

CSF flows from the Lateral Ventricles to the 3rd Ventricle, then through the Cerebral Aqueduct to the 4th Ventricle.

What are gyri and sulci?

Gyri are the ridges (bumps) on the cerebral cortex, while sulci are the grooves or indentations between gyri.

What is the posterolateral view of the brainstem include?

It includes structures like the thalamus, hypothalamus, pineal gland, midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata.

List the cranial nerves and their respective Roman numerals.

Olfactory (I), Optic (II), Oculomotor (III), Trochlear (IV), Trigeminal (V), Abducens (VI), Facial (VII), Vestibulocochlear (VIII), Glossopharyngeal (IX), Vagus (X), Accessory (XI), Hypoglossal (XII).